Future of the New-Zealand Navy

Only able to conduct small peacekeeping ops in the Pacific/Indian Ocean’s (frigates excepted), but asked thee more ?

Cartography
Coastlines: 15 134 km (9 398 mi).
The country claims the seventh-largest EEZ in the world, covering over four million square kilometres (1.5 million sq mi), more than 15 times its land area.

Personnal strength
(January 2010): +/- 2900 (+ 2500 volunteer)
Regular: 2162; Naval-Reserve: 338; Civilian: 400; Coast-Guard: +/- 2500 volunteer.

1 Sealift Ro-Ro ship
1 Canterburry
“Canterburry”, 9000 tons Ro-Ro (derived from the commercial Ro-Ro "Ben-My-Chree" design). Commissioned by 2007, with probable 25+ year service life expected, to be retired during 2030's. The ship experienced initially some troubles (& even more worse, some initial specification not reached).

2 Small Landing Crats
2 LCM
50/100 tons, 23 meters.

2 Frigates
2 Anzac
“Te Kaha, Te Mana”. 3600 tons multi-purpose frigates from the Anzac program. Commissioned by 1997/1999, with probable +/- 30 year service life, to be retired by 2027/2029.

These 2 vessels will most likely be replaced by 2 future frigates of the same design of future Australian frigates (it intended to replace the Anzac’s, by late 2010’s/late 2020’s). It is very likely that the New Zealand Navy, with limited financial capability, will participate in the Australian project, to reduce the cost of acquisitions.

1 Fleet Tanker
1 Endeavour
“Endeavour”, 7000/12 000 tons, commissioned by 1988. With probable 30 year service life, to be retired by late 2010’s/early 2020.

2 Ocean Patrol Vessels
2 Otago
“Otago, Wellington”, 1900 tons, 85 meters. Commissioned by 2008/2009. Considerable troubles experienced (overweight problems, initial requirement not fully reached). With probable +/- 25 year service life expected, to be retired by 2033.

4 Mid Shore Patrol Vessels
4 Rotoiti
“Rotoiti, Hawea, Pukaki, Taupo”, 340 tons, 55 meters. Commissioned by 2009, with probable +/- 20/25 year service life expected, to be retired by 2030/2033.

1 ocean survey vessel
1 Resolution
“Resolution”, 2200 tons, 68 meters (ex US Stalwart class ships built in the 1980’s, transferred by 1997). Likely to be replaced late 2010's/early 2020's by a civilian loaned (or built) ship ?

1 Diving support ship
1 Manawanui
“Manawanui”, 900 tons, 43 meters. Commissioned by 1988, likely to be retired by late 2010's/early 2020's.

Naval aviation
5 helico
5 Kaman SH-2G Seasprite. (newly built seaframe), Delivered by 2001/2003.

Royal New Zealand Coast Guard (civilian volunteer, SAR use)
+/- 75 various small crafts
(9,5 meters RHIB, few small rescue crafts)

2 helico or aircrafts?

In the recent years, the Royal New Zealand Navy has modernized considerably its surface fleet (newer Sealift/Patrol ships). But the country’s limited resources ($, population), coupled with a “specific” New Zealand policy/strategy, require the Navy to have a naturally reduced format. But this small size is probably a bit too small, because the country has vast areas of ocean in the south Pacific (the seventh largest Exclusive Economic Zone of the world, with 4 million square kilometers). 2 furthers Ocean Patrol Vessel, 3 furthers Mid-Shore Patrol Vessels, few long range UAV and few additionnal SAR helico……would not be too.

Next fleet review/editorial: Future of the Portuguese Navy.

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?), then said it ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Future of the Iranian Navy

Any realistic hope in conventional high-sea naval warfare (due to US/Israeli supremacy), but coastal/asymmetrical naval warfare remain the only “serious chance”.

Cartography:
Coastline:
2440 kilometers (1520 mi) in the Gulf + 740 kilometers (460 mi) in the Caspian Sea.

Personnal strength (+/- 53 000):
Regular/Conscript sailors: +/- 28 000; Islamic revolutionary guard corps naval force: +/- 20 000 (including 5000 “marines”); Iranian navy « marines » corps: 2600; Iranian naval aviation: 2600.

+/- 7 Corvettes:
3 Alvand class
“Alvand”, “Alborz”, “Sabalan”, 1540 tons, 94 meters british Vosper Mk5 corvette design of late 1960’s. Commissioned by 1971/1972. Now totally obsolete. Likely to reach the end of these useful life by late 2010’s and +/- replaced by the later “Moudge” class corvettes.

2 Moudge class
“Jamaran”, “Velayat”, 1400 tons. Slightly improved Alvand design with some Iranian indigenous systems. Commissioned by 2010/2012, with probable 30+ year service life, to be retired by late 2040’s. Likely 2 or 3 further ships planned through mid/late 2010’s to replace ageing “Alvand” class.

2 Bayandor class
“Bayandor, Admiral Naghdi”, ex US patrol corvettes PF 103 design (1100 tons, 83 meters), built by 1964. Armed with 4 SSM missiles and guns, now totally obsolete. Likely to reach the end of their useful hull-life by 2010’s and maybe indirectly replaced by newer “Moudge” class corvette or their life will be desperately extended in event of higher tension with US/Israel…

Likely a newer Iranian corvette design (much improved “Moudge”) is under study, and maybe (if any major war erupt with US/Israeli during 2010’s…) 2 or 3 newer ships were expected by late 2010’s/early 2020’s.

+/- 5 Mid-Shore Patrol boats:
3 Parvin class
(Parvin, Bahram, Nahid), 98 tons, 30 meters (ex US PGM-71 design, delivered during 1970’s), gun armed. Likely to reach the end of their useful life by late 2010’s.

2 (or 3 ?) Kaivan class
(Azadi, Mehran, maybe a third boat in unserviceable condition?), 98 tons, 28 meters, gun armed.

24 Fast Missiles Attack Crafts:
10 “Houdong/Thondar” class
(Fath, Nasr, Saf, Ra’ad, Fajr, Shams, Me’raj, Falaq, Hadid, Qadir). 38 meters 170/200 tons Chinese built FAC with 2 SSM missiles & MG, commissioned by 1994/1996, to be retired by late 2030’s.

10 Kaman class
(Kaman, Xoubin, Khadang, Falakhon, Shamshir, Gorz, Gardouneh, Khanjar, Neyzeh, Tabarzin). 275 tons, 47 meters French built “Combatant” FAC family, with 4 SSM missiles & guns. Commissioned by 1977/1981, expected to reach the end of their useful life by late 2010’s.

4 Paykan class
(Paykan, Joshan, Derafsh, Kalat), Indigenously Iranian built & improved version of the Kaman class, 275 tons, 47 meters, with 4 SSM missiles & guns. Commissioned by 2003/2008. To be retired by 2040’s.

Likely some further ships (4 to 12 ?) were planned through 2010’s (Improved “Paykan” or a newer design ?) to replace +/- progressively the ageing “Kaman” class.

+/- 60 Small Fast Missiles Attack Crafts/Torpedoes Crafts:
9 Chinese cat-14
14 or 23? meters, 20 tons Chinese built design, now built under licence by Iran, with 4 SSM missiles & MG. The 5 first ships were delivered by Chinese in 2000, the next 4 were Iranian built ships by 2003-2008. Maybe few others under constructions ?.

Up to 25 Peykaap II class
13 tons, 17 meters, North-Korean built (IPS-16, FAC version), with 2 torpedoes & MG. Real number likely between 10 to 25 ships. Maybe few others under construction ?

10 Tir class (IPS-18)
28 tons, 21 meters, with 2 torpedoes & MG. 10 Mk-13 14 meters Chinese design, delivered by 2006, with torpedoes or SSM missiles.

3 Kajami class
20 meters (North-Korean Taedong B design), delivered by 2002, able to carry 2 torpedoes.

3 Gahjae class
15 meters (North-Korean Taedong C design), delivered by 2002, able to carry 2 torpedoes.

92 ??? Bavar class
(Iranian built). Uncertain data, very unlikely

Likely some (+/- 2 or 3 dozens?) furthers boats (China or North Korean or Iranian designs) were planned through 2010’s to enhance/modernize the Iranian navy coastal defence capabilities.

+/- 110 Small Fast attack Crafts/Patrol-Crafts:
15 Peykaap I class
13 tons, 17 meters, North-Korean built (IPS-16, patrol crafts version), with MG. Maybe few others under construction ?

3 Zafar class
70/82 tons, 85 foot North Korean “Chaho” design, armed with rockets & MG.

6 MIG-S-2600 class
70/80 tons, 85 foot Iranian built, derived from North Korean “Chaho” class, armed with rockets & MG.

10 Pasche class
(MIG-S-1900 design).

20 MIG-S-1800
22 tons, 51 foot Iranian built, derived from US PCI class delivered in the 1970’s. Armed with MG.

6 Mk-II:
22 tons, 50 foot, armed wiyh MG (26 originally delivered by US in 1976/1977).

9 or 10 Mk-III:
28/41 tons, 19 meters, armed with MG (20 originally delivered by US in 1975/1976).

3 Sewart class
10 tons, 40 foot US built (12 originally delivered by US through 1970’s), armed with MG.

+/- 30 Boghammer class (MIG-G-0900)
6+ tons, +/- 9 meters, armed with MG & small rockets. (51 originally delivered bu Sweden by 1984/1985).

Very likely some of these western 1970’s/1980’s built small crafts (Mk II-III/Sewart/Boghammer) were unserviceable/worn-out/in bad-shape due to age/lack-of-spare.

6 Wellington patrol crafts
(2 Mk 4; 4 Mk 5)

1 Iran
A indegenous iranian built small craft ?

+/- 77 Others various small crafts:
3 MIL
(2 MIL 40; 1 MIL 55)

6 GHAEM
(MIG-S-1800 design)

20 MURCE
(MIG-S-0900 design)

15 TARLAN

10 KASHDOM II

20 ASHOORA I
(MIG-S-0800 design)

2 KARBALA
(MIG-S-3700 design)

1 LIYAN 110

+/- 200 miscellaneous small crafts :
+/- 200 (RHIB, small fast “militarized” racing-boats, small-harbor crafts…).

Some of these crafts, although with a very limited autonomy/seakeeping, were able to be used as decoy/suicide crafts.

Nota: Since the late 1990’s, the Iranian Navy has worked to enhance its small patrol boat inventory by purchasing few fast boats (racing-boats, 50+ knots) from foreign speedboat manufacturer (Italian “Fabio-Buzzi (FB)” or British ”Bradstone-Challenger” designs…). Apparently the Iranian Navy “reverse engineered” the boats and began indigenously producing them (likely for Intelligence/Suicide/Harassing ops use).

Unmanned Crafts:
The Iranian Navy also reportedly is working on incorporating small "unmanned vessels" into its inventory, for intelligence/suicide ops.

3 Submarines:
3 Kilo class
4000 tons SSK (Russian Kilo SSK design). “Tareq, Noor, Yunes”, commissioned by 1992/1997. Likely with +/- 30 year service life, to be retired by 2025 and maybe replaced by a indigenous +/- 1000/1500 tons coastal SSK. Likely to be a “main-priorities” target for the US/Israeli forces in event of war.

Up to 13+ Midget Submarines:
1 Qaaem class
“Qaaem”, 1000 tons, under construction.

1 Nahang Class
“Nahang”, 350/400 tons, commissioned by 2006.

Up to 7 Ghadir class
“Ghadir”, others not officially named, 120/150 tons, commissioned from 2007-...

4 Yugo (Yono IS-120 ?) class
25 tons, midget submarine built by North-Korean.

8 ? (likely much more) Swimmer Delivery Vehicle
“Al Sabehar" class ?

8 meters ?...Any serious data found on the open web source (except propaganda pictures...). But it is very clear that Iranian frogmen’s were extremely well trained for special ops (attack on ship at anchor/harbor…).

Very likely the Iranian small sub’s fleet is expected to growth considerably in size during 2010’s because the cost/effectiveness of Midget (25/250+ tons) or coastal (400/800 tons) sub’s in restricted/Shallow waters (aka. Gulf-waters) was considerable (more cheaper/effective/stealthy than bigger 1500+ tons subs designs), and this, despite a smaller autonomy/sea-keeping quality (not very important in restricted/shallow waters).

2 Mine Warfare:
2 Riazi class
(Harischi, Riazi), 98 tons, 29 meters minesweeper (ex US Cape class).
A great shortcoming for the Iranian Navy.

Amphibious:
4 Hengam LST
(Hengam, Larak, Lavan, Tonb), 2500 tons, 93 meters LST, british design derived from Sir Lancelot class. Commissioned by 1984/1985. Likely to reach the end of their useful life by late 2020’s.

3 Iran Hormuz 24
2000 tons, 240 foot, South-Korean built, 1985/1986. Likely to reach the end of their useful life by late 2020’s.

2 (3?) Iran Hormuz 21
1400 tons, 213 foot, Dutch-built, 1984/1985. A third ship unserviceable. Likely to reach the end of their useful life by late 2020’s.

3 “Fouque” class
250 tons, 125 foot Landing Ship Large (LSL), Iranian built 1988/late 1990’s.

6 LCT/LCU “Rotork” class (type 412)
9 tons, 42 foot, British built (originally 14 delivered).

With a ageing amphibious fleet (mainly from 1980’s). It is very clear that the Iranian navy will need to begin newer amphibious ships acquisitions projects by mid/late 2010’s for a first commission by early/mid 2020’s.

Few Hovercrafts:
Few SR N6 hovercraft
10 tons, 17 meters British design, delivered by 1973/1975.

Few BH 7 logistic support hovercrafts
18/56 tons, 24 meters British design. Originally 6 BH 7 (two BH 7 Mk4 & four BH 7 Mk 5A) were delivered to the Iranian navy by mid 1970’s.

But now, with embargoes/ageing-systems/lack-of-spare, nearly the entire Iranian hovercraft fleet (British built) was reduced to a embryonic/anorexic size (some crafts were deliberately cannibalized to provide spare-part for others in better condition, others were in storage, with probable any future hope to see the sea…).

3 Auxiliary ships:
1 Kharg class replenishment ship
“Kharg”, 33 000 tons, 207 meters British design (derived from Olwen design), commissioned by 1984, likely to reach the end of their useful life by mid 2020’s.

2 “Bandar-Abbas” class light replenishment ship
(Bandar Abbas, Booshehr), 4600 tons, 108 meters German built design, commissioned by 1973/1974, likely to reach the end of their useful life by late 2010’s.

With these 3 ageing ships, the Iranian navy need to acquire 2 or 3 newer ships by late 2010’s/early 2010’s.

+/- 24 Multi-purpose tenders:
7 Delvar class water tanker
(Delvar, Charak, Chiroo, Souru, Silim, Sirjan, Dayer), 1300 tons, 63 meters Pakistani built. Commissioned by 1978/1982. Likely to reach the end of their useful life by 2020’s. Can be used as cargo ship/water tanker/minelayers/mothers ships for midget submarines/small crafts.

13 Hendijan class general purpose tenders (MIG-S-4700 design)
(Hendijan, Konarak, Sirik, Geno, Kalat, Genaveh, Savatar, Mogam, Rostani, MMayband, Maqam, Khoramshahr, Bamregan).

4 Kangan class water tanker
(Kangan, Teheri, Marjani, Amir), 12 000 tons (Indian design built), commissioned by 1979. Can be used as a patrol boat.

Some of these ageing (late 1970’s) tenders were +/- in bad shape, few with reduced readiness. Likely some others civilian’s ships were able to be converted as mothers/intelligence ships in a even of war.

Few hundreds of Civilian built crafts:
Several dozen of civilians/privates “Dhow” & “trawlers”, able to be used as mothers ships/Intelligence ships.

Several dozen (or few hundred ?) of civilians/privates owned RHIB/small-crafts, able to be “militarized” as suicide/intelligence/decoy crafts.

Coastal battery/artillery:
Artillery
(likely “shared” between the two “marines corps” & the land army): Without doubt, some 105/122/152mm guns (towed or self-propelled) were used in coastal artillery + some anti-tank missiles or recoilless rifles (75/82/106/107mm) and even mortars (60/81/82/107/120mm).

Airborne anti-ships missiles (shared with Iranian air force):
AS-10 Karen/AS-11 Kilter/C-801K/C-802 and maybe others.

Coastal anti-ships missiles (estimations):
100 + C-802/802A “Noor”.
100 + HY-2 “Silkworm”.
Some C-701T/C-201R/TL-10 A/B “Kosar various versions”.
Some Ra’ad.

Obviously, don’t forget the Iranian naval-mines arsenal, able to disrupt the oil world traffic through the Ormuz strait for several weeks or more likely few months…

Iranian Naval Aviation (estimations):
+/- 55 Helico:
4 Aero Commander ; 4 Shrike Commander ; 2 Bell AB 205; 20 Bell AB 206A; 15 Sea-King SH-3D; 10 Sea-Stallion RH-53D.

+/- 9 Aircrafts:
2 Falcon 20 ; 4 Fokker F27 ; 3 PF-3 Orion.

Some aircrafts from the Iranian air force (F-4D Phantom, Su-24 Fnecer, Mirage F-1) have a anti-ship capability.

In any case, some US/Western built helico/aircraft were in storage or in reduced service, mainly due to embargoes/ageing/spare-part/maintenance problems. Some helico/aircrafts were “cannibalized” for provide urgent spare part for much fewer helico/aircrafts in better condition.

In resume:
In event of a war with US/Israeli force, the biggest Iranian ships (Kilo subs, Corvettes, +/- medium auxiliary/landing ships (500+ tons), 100+ tons FAC) will be easily found & sunk in the first’s dozens of hours in a major war. The smallest units (under 50 tons), the coastal defence (Missiles battery/naval-mines) and the iranians specials forces (frogmens/commandos...) probably represent the main chance for the Iranian navy to effectively “withstand” the first main US/Israeli strike…

Next fleet review/editorial: Future of the Royal New Zealand Navy.

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programs ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially in small-crafts), then said it ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Future of the South Korean Navy

One of the seven largest navy of the world by 2022...

Personnal strenght (+/- 72 000):
+/- 68 000:
(including +/- 28 000 south-korean "marines", +/- 45 000 regular sailors and +/- 19 000 conscript).

+ 4500 (maritime police).

2 LPH/LHD (up to 4):
2 Dokdo Class
18 000 tons LPH, a modern LPH design (derived from dutch Thales Netherlands design studies). "Dokdo, Marado-Island", commissioned by 2007/2011. With probable +/- 30 year service life expected, to be retired by 2037/2041.

2 bigger & improved ships were planned by late 2010’s (likely a 30 000+ tons, full F-35 capable).

Others Amphibious ships:
4 Go Jun Bong class
"Go-Jun-Bong, Bi-Ro-Bong, Hyang-Ro-Bong, Sung-In-Bong), 2600/4300 tons LST style, commissioned by 1994/1998. With probable 35+ years service life expected, to be retired by late 2020’s decade. Likely one of these current ship will be “loaned” to the Royal Malaysian navy .

4 Alligator LST.

Very likely a new program of medium amphibious ships (+/- 3000/5000 tons) was underway, but sorry I not find data about it !

43 landing crafts (2006/2007 estimates + updates)
- 6 LCT, 20 LCVP, 10 LCM.

+ 3 LSF-I (project 12 061E Murena-E).

+ 4 LSF-II (Indigenous built US LCAC).

12 Destroyers/Frigates
3 Sejong the Great class (KDX-III)
"Sejong-the-Great, Yulgok-Yi-I, Kwon-Yul", 11 000 tons, enlarged design derived from US Arleigh Burke IIA flight, a very extremely powerfull AAW ship design, even more capable than the current US aegis CG/DDG ships !, commissioned by 2008/2011. With probable 35+ year service life expected, to be retired by 2043/2046.

Up to 6 "KDX-IIA" by 2022
A second batch of 3 KDX-III, originally planned toward 2018/2022 was finally cancelled because the future south Korean navy needs change rapidly, from very high-end warships (very powerful/ expensive) to a mid-end warships (+/- powerful but cheaper, more affordable in greater number). Consequently, the further three 11 000 tons KDX III was cancelled and replaced by 6 newer 5600 tons KDX IIA (improved KDX II with Aegis).

6 Chungmugong Yi Sun-Shin class (KDX-II)
"Chungmugong-Yi-Sun-Shin, Munmu-the-great, Dae-Joyeong, Wang-Geon, Kang-Gamchan, Choi -Young). 5000 tons. Commissioned by 2003/2008. With probable 30 year service life, to be retired by 2033/2038.

3 Gwanggaeto the Great class (KDX-I)
"Gwanggaeto-the-Great, Eulji-Mundeok, Yang-Manchun". 3800 tons. Commissioned by 1998/2000. With probable 30 year service life, to be retired by 2028/2030.

9 Light frigates (to be replaced by fewer/bigger ships):
9 "Ulsan"
"Ulsan, Seoul, Chungnam, Masan, Gyeongbuk, Jeonnam, Jeju, Busan, Cheongju", 2300 tons, commissioned by 1981/1993. With probable 30+ year service life, all to be retired by 2011/2023 and partially replaced by a newer series of six 5600 tons KDX-IIA frigate (improved KDX-II with Aegis system) by 2018/2022.

+/- 23 Corvettes:
22 Pohang class
1200 tons corvette, in 3 batch :
- 3 Batch 1 (SUW), "Gunsan, Gyeongju, Mokpo", commissioned by 1984/1986.
- 17 Batch 2 (ASW): "Gimcheon, Chungju, Jinu, Yeosu, Jinhae, Suncheon, Iri, Wonju, Andong, Bucheon, Seongnam, Jecheon, Daecheon, Sokcho, Yeongju, Namwon, Gwangmyeong", commissioned by 1987/1991.
- 2 Batch 3 (AAW) "Sinseong, Gongju", commissioned by 1992/1993.

1 Donghae class
"Anyang", 1000 tons, 1983. Likely to be retired soon (3 others similar ships recently decommissioned).

The FFX project (up to 24 ships ?):
These 22 “Pohang” corvettes and 1 “Dong Hae” corvette will be replaced by a newer class of frigate (the FFX project). As usual, this new class of frigate will be much bigger (3200 tons), better armed (a 76 or more likely a 127mm gun, a CIWS system, one helico with hangar) and build in massive number (12 to 24 ships).
The recent "Chenoan disaster" highlight the need for a stronger ASW suit for the future South Korean ships. It is clear that the South Korean Navy will try to integrate in these new vessels a stronger anti submarine capability. If unfortunately the CURRENT FFX design does not include a ASW VLS missiles (to carry Red Shark missile), because the first ship of this series is scheduled for 2012, it is very likely that the first "batch"of 6 vessels (to be commissioned by 2012-2015) will have the original design.
A very likely second "batch" (12 to 24 vessels ? between 2015/2022), probably benefit from greater improvements (superstructures modified, maybe slightly enlarged with a "pluggin" few hull meters added, to more easily insert VLS).

+/- 75 Fast attack missikes crafts (expected to fall in number & growth in size):
Gumdoksuri class
570 tons fast craft intended in 2 batch:
- 24 PKX-A (or Yun Youngha class), a missile patrol ship.
- 18 PKX-B, a patrol boat (Yoon Youngha, Han Sanggook, Jo Chunhyung, Hwang Dohyun, Suh Hoowon, Park Donghyuk, others future craft not yet named). Maybe others "batch" ? planned by late 2010's ?. Intended to replace the ageing "Chamsuri" FAC.

+/- 75 Chamsuri class
170 tons.

12 Submarines (toward a domestic capacity in 2020 ?)
3 (+6) Sohn-Won-Yil class
"Son Won Il, Jeong Ji, An Jung Geun", 1900 tons, type 214 SSK. Commissioned by 2007/2009.
6 others subs was ordered to be commissioned by 2014/2018.

9 Chang Bogo class
"Chang Bogo, Lee Chun, Choi Museon, Park Wi, Lee Jongmu, Jeong Un, Lee Sunsin, Na Daeyong, Lee Eokgi", 1800 tons, type 209 SSK. Commissioned by 1993/2001, with probable +/- 30 year service life expected, to be retired by 2023/2031.

SSK(X):
Likely +/- 3 newer 3000+ tons SSK (of a indigenous design) were expected by early 2020 with a 4th ship maybe to become the 1st south Korean SSN by mid 2020’s ?

+/- 11 Coastal submarines:
2 "Dolgorae" class.
9 "Dolphin" class.

+/- 10 Minewespeers:
1 "Wonsan" class minelayer ship.
3 "Yangyang" class Mine-hunter.
6 "Ganggyeong" class coastal mine-hunter.

+/- 10 Auxiliary's (estimation):
3 "Cheonji" class combat support ships.
1 "Cheonghaejin" class submarine rescue ship.
2 "Pyeongtaek" class salvage/rescue ships (ex us Edenton class).
1 "Sinsegi" class intelligence ship.
1 "Sincheonji" class AGS ship.
1 "Dadohae" class, midget submarine tender ship.

Naval Aviation (estimation):
19 Aircrafts: 16 P3C (8 P3C, 8 P3CK); 3 Cessna F406, 8 S-2E tracker (some in reserve).
38 Helico (+9): 10 UH-60P; 23 Lynx (11 Mk 99, 12 Mk 99A); 5 Alouette III + 9 Hughes 500 (South-Korea Maritime Police).

South Korea Maritime Police (2006/2007 +/- "inacurate" estimates):
1 PSO:
1 "Sumjinkang".

10 PCO:
1 "Han Kang".
3 "Mazinger".
6 "Sea Dragon".

33 PCC
(4 Burkhansan, 7 Hyundai type, 22 Sea Wolf/shark).

+/- 20 PCI
18 Seagull PBI
3 ARS

Several KCH 100 tons patrol boats.

65 KCG 50 tons patrol boats (commissioned by 2002/2006).

South-Korean Marines Corps (estimates):
+/- 28 000 troops.
60 M-47 tank.
+/- 100 AAV amphibious armored vehicles (42 AAV-7A1, 60 LVTP-7).
Some 105 & 155mm guns.

With a continuously growth, the South-Korean navy was expected to reach a considerable size by 2022:
- Two 30 000+ tons LPH.
- Two 18 000 tons LPH.
- 30 to 42 ! major surface combatant (3000+ tons) : Three 11 000 tons KDX-III, Six 5600 tons KDX-IIA, Six 5000 tons KDX-II, Three 3800 tons KDX-I, Twelve to Twenty-fourth 3200 tons FFX.
- Around 18 Submarines : 9 type 214, +/- 7/8 type 209, 1 or 2 SSK(X).

A considerable size helped by the economic/strategic/politic weight of some “Asiatic Giant/Tiger” country by 2020 (China, South-Korea, India, Indonesia, Singapour, Malaysia, Thailand) and by the continual decline of some “western” navy.

Next editorial: Future of the Iranian Navy.

As usual, It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programms ? (or made few mistakes ?, especially in small crafts/auxiliary's/Coast Guards strenght), then said it ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Future of the Canadian Navy

With the door of the artic ocean expected to be completely open by late 2030’s (by ice melt), don’t forget this new Nordic challenge !

CANADIAN NAVY:

15 Destroyers/Frigates (likely to drop to 8/12 by late 2020's):

12 Halifax Frigates

(Halifax, Vancouver, ville de quebec, Toronto, regina, Calgary, montreal, fredericton, winnipeg, charlettetown, st john’s, Ottawa), 4700 tons ASW oriented ship, commissioned by 1992/1996. With probable 30 year service life expected, to be retired by 2022/2026.

3 Iroquois destroyers

(Iroquois, Athabaskan, Algonquin), 5100 tons ASW destroyers, commissioned by 1972, heavily modernized by 1990’s. Likely to be not directly replaced by a newer Canadian surface combatant ships.

These 2 classes of ships should be replaced by a new common frigate/destroyers class by late 2010’s/late 2020’s. By cons, it is very likely that these 15 current ships are replaced by larger (5000/6000 tons) and fewer (8 to 12) new ships. Possible design contenders:

- British type 26 (or a "canadianized" version of the type 26) or C1/C2 "concept".

- French Fremm (6000 tons) or FM 400 (4000 tons).

- Or a Canadian indigenous design ?

Current others foreign design (US, German, Spanish, Italian) were unlikely.

12 Patrols boats (likely to drop at 6/8 by 2020’s decade):

12 Kingston PB's

(Kingston, Glace Bay, Nanaimo, Edmonton, Shawinigan, Whitehorse, Yellowknife, Goose Bay, Moncton, Saskatoon, Brandon, Summerside), 970 tons patrol boats, commissioned by 1996/1999. With probable 25+ year service life. To be retired by 2021/2024. Some serious rumors rise by early 2010 that this ship class will be reduced by half in event of budget cuts, this situation prove the Canadian disregard about current small/coastal warfare.

4 Submarines:

4 Victoria SSK

(Victoria, Windsor, Corner Brook, Chicoutimi), 2200 tons SSK submarines, initially in service with Royal Navy by 1990/91, re-commissioned by Canadian navy by 2000/2004. This class suffered from considerable problems in initial Canadian service. With a probable 25+ year service life expected, to be retired by 2020’s-early 2030’s. A replacement programe were currently really "dubious" and in +/- serious doubts...

2 Fleet Tanker ships:

2 Protecteur class

(Protecteur, Preserver), +/- 24 000 tons fleet tanker, commissioned by 1969/1970. Now completely worn out and to be retired by mid 2010’s and replaced by 2 newer "JSS" (Joint Support Ship). Official option for a 3th "JJS" ship were clearly a big joke and any real hope to have this third ship were real (this fleet tanker project replacement suffered from delays/cost-overuns since 2008).

9 Training ship:

1 Oriole class

"Oriole", 92 tons sailing ship, commissioned by 1952.

8 Orca class

(Orca, Raven, Caribou, Renard, Wolf, Grizzly, Cougar, Moose), 210 tons, likely to be dual purpose (training/light patrol ship), commissioned by 2006/2008.

2 Fireboats:

2 "fire" class fireboats

(Firebrand, Firebird), 140 tons.

11 Tugboats:

5 Glen class

(Glendyne, Glendale, Glenevis, Glenbrook, Glenside), 250 tons.

1 Tilicum

"Tilicum", 140 tons.

5 Ville class tugs

(Lawrenceville, Parksville, Listerville, Merrickville, Marysville), 45 tons.

10 Auxiliary ships:

2 Auxiliary torpedo/sound ranging vessels

(Sikanni, Stikine).

3 Yard diving tenders

2 Sechelt class (Sechelt, Sooke), 1991.

1 Granby.

5 Yard auxiliary

(Pelican, Gemini, Pegasus, Albatross, Blackduck).

CANADIAN COAST GUARDS:

2 heavy Artic-Icebreakers:

1 “Louis.S. St-Laurent” type, 11400 tons, commissioned by 19­­69. These replacement project likely delayed until late 2010’s...

1 “Terry-Fox” type, 4200 tons, commissioned by 1992, with +/- 30 years service life, to be retired by mid 2020's.

4 Artic-Icebreakers:

2 Amundsen class ("Amundsen”, "Des Groseilliers"), 5900 tons, 98 meters, commissioned by 1979/1982.

1 « Henry Larsen », likely a improved "amundsen" design, 6100 tons, 100 meters, 1987.

1 « Pierre Radisson », 1978.

+/- 7 light icebreakers/buoy support vessel:

2 "Ann Harvey" type (« Ann Harvey », " Sir William Alexander), 3800 tons, 83 meters, 1987.

1 “Edward Cornwallis”.

1 “George R Pearkes”, 1986.

1 “Griffon”, 2200 tons, 71 meters, 1970.

1 “Martha L Black”, 1986.

1 “Sir Wilfrid Laurier”, 5000 tons, 83 meters, 1986.

These 1970/1980's ships were expected to be replaced by a new group of +/- 6 or 8 new artic OPV.

2 Offshore Fishery & oceanographic research ships:

1 “Hudson”, 3400 tons, 92 meters, 1963. To be replaced by a newer 90/100 meters ship by early 2010's.

1 “John P Tully”, 1985.

4 Offshore Fishery science:

1 “Alfred Needler”, 950 tons, 50 meters, 1982

1 “Teleost”, 1988.

1 “W E Ricker”, 1978.

1 “Wilfred Templeman”, 1981.

These 4 ships were currently replaced by 3 newer 67 meters ships commissioned by 2010/2012.

5 Marine service

1 “Bartlett”, 1300 tons, 57 meters, 1969.

1 “Earl Grey”, 1986.

1 “provo Wallis”.

1 “Samuel Risley”, 1900 tons, 69 meters, 1985.

1 “Tracy”.

4 Offshore patrol:

1 “cape Roger”, 1200 tons, 62 meters, 1977.

1 “Cygnus”, 1200 tons, 62 meters, 1982.

1 “Leonard J Cowley”, 1200 tons, 62 meters, 1984.

1 “Sir Wilfred Grenfeld”, 2400 tons, 68 meters, 1987.

7 Mid-Shore patrol vessel:

(Arrow Post, E P Le Quebecois, Gordon Reid, Harp, Louis M Lauzier, Louisbourg, Tanu), 37/49 meters.

9 newer mid-shore patrol vessel (derived from the 42 meters Damen Stan 4207 patrol vessel design) were under deliveries (all received by 2012).

6 Hydrographic survey ships:

“Frederick G Creed”.

“ Limnos”, 44 meters, 1968.

“ Matthew, R B Young, Otter Bay, Vector”, 1960’s.

4 Special naval tenders:

(Dumit, Eckaloo, Nahidik, Tembah).

6 Mid shore fishery research ships:

(Calanus II, Neocaligus, Opilio, Pandalus II, Shamook, Shark (retired 2009)).

3 new Inshore Fisheries Science Vessel (two 18 meters and one 24 meters ships) were under delivery (all received by 2011).

2 Channel survey/sounding vessel:

(F C G Smith, GC-03).

5 Overcrafts:

2 type 400 AP1-88 ACV (Sipu Muin, Siyay).

1 type 200 AP1-88 ACV (Waban-Aki).

2 others (Mamilossa, Penac).

36 Motor Lifeboats (+/- 15 meters):

36 "cape" class motor life boat.

Others small boats:

(navigation vessel; some RHIB (Zodiac Hurricance Mk IV, V, VI, 733, 753 solas designs)).

A project for 98 newer very small crafts/boats/barges were under study to replace ageing small auxiliary crafts/harbor barges.

Canadian Naval aviation (Navy), estimations:

+/- 27 Helico:

- 27 CH-124 Sea King, 1960’s era helico, to be replaced by 28 newer CH-148 Cyclone.

+/- 21 Aircrafts:

21 CP-140 Aurora (18 CP-140, 3 CP-140A), in service since 1980-1990’s. Some aircrafts were now under modernization.

Canadian Naval Aviation (Coast-Guards), estimations:

+/- 27 Helico:

- 16 Bo-105; 2 Bell 407; 4 Bell 212 Huey; 6 Bell 206 Jet Ranger; 1 Sikorsky S-91.

+/- 7 Aircrafts (survey and pollution surveillance)

- 2 de Havilland Dash 8; 3 Beech Super King B200; 1 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter; 1 De Havilland Dash 7.

and, of course, don't forget the recent "official" "30 years canadian shipsbuilding plan" (even if it is already a big joke, so the future foreseables budgets cuts will soon make it obsolete...)

Next editorial: Future of the South Korean Navy.

It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programms ? (or made few mistakes ?), then said it ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !

Future of the US Light Surface Combattant Fleet

Between good and catastrophic idea’s…


+/- 58 FFG/MCM/PB’s, expected to be replaced by 55 LCS

30 Oliver.H.Perry class ASW Frigate (Now OPV)
(McInemey, Boone, Stephen W Groves, John L Hall, Jarrett, Underwood, Crommelin, Curts, Doyle, Halyburton, McClusky, Klakring, Thach, De Wert, Rentz, Nicholas, Vandegrift, Robert G Bradley, Taylor, Gary, Carr, Hawes, Ford, Elrod, Simpson, Reuben James, Samuel B Roberts, Kauffman, Rodney M Davis, Ingraham). Effective ASW frigate during late cold war, 51 originally build. The remaining frigates on US hands will have been converted for OPV use. Commissioned by 1979/1989, with 30 year service life expected, all to be retired by 2019 and replaced by some LCS.


14 Cyclone class patrol boats
(PC-1/14: Cyclone, Tempest, Hurricane, Monsoon, Typhoon, Sirocco, Squall, Zephyr, Chinook, Firebolt, Whirlind, Thunderboldt, Shamal, Tornado). 350+ tons patrol boats. Commissioned by 1993/2000, with probable 20/25 year service life expected. But current US Navy plan probably expect to retire +/- prematurely this class by early 2010’s (some likely to be transferred to foreign navy). To be partially replaced in the US Fleet by some LCS.

14 Avenger class Minewespeer (US MCM capabilities likely to rise by early 2020’s ?)
(Avenger, Defender, Sentry, Champion, Guardian, Devastator, Patriot, Scout, Pioneern Warrior, Gladiator, Ardent, Dextrous, Chief). 1300 tons, commissioned by 1987/1994. With probable 25+ year service life, all to be retired by 2012/2019 and replaced by some LCS fitted with MCM modules (24 MCM modules officially expected).

In fact, these 3 class of ships (30+14+14= 58 ships) are scheduled to be replaced by a single new common modular class of 55 ships, the LCS…


Up to 55 Littoral Combat Ships, or the fatal error…
Early 1990’s/2001: A initial great idea or the return to the naval littoral warfare !
In the aftermark of the cold war, with some new kind of conflicts around the world, the concept of littoral warfare resurfaced (especially the “Street-fighter” concept, a 500/800 tons fast, stealthy craft intended to dominate enemy littoral’s) rise up.

2001/mid 2003: Very trendy, many design study and some hope for a smaller 300/800 tons design…
By mid 2001, some US warships study look for a 500 tons design. The LCS is intended to be a cheap (220 $ million max), fast (40+ knots) and +/- light (up tp +/- 2000/3000 tons), hightly automated (40/75 sailors) surface combatant that is to be equipped with modular “plug-and-fight” mission packages. The LCS’s primary intended missions are antisubmarine warfare (ASW), mine countermeasures (MCM), and surface warfare (SUW), particularly in littoral waters. Others missions include peacetime engagement/partnership-building operations, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations, maritime intercept operations, operations to support special operations forces, and homeland defense operations.

By late 2002/early 2003, severals designs were seriously studied for the LCS concept :
- A +/- 120 meters, 3000 tons Trimaran hull design, from Bath Iron Works/General Dynamics/Austal. Gibbs & Cox.
- A +/- 115 meters, 3000 tons advanced 3000 tons semi planning monohull design “Sea Blade” from Lockheed Martin. Marine Systems.
- A 72+ meters, 640 tons monohull stealthly design derived from the Swedish “Visby” corvette design, offered by Northrop Grumann/Kockums/HDW.
- Textron Systems offered this Hybrid Catamaran Air Cushion (HCAC) craft.
- A 47+ meters, 275+ tons, +/- similar to the Norwegian “Skjold” stealthly craft, offered by Raytheon.

Late 2003/2004: First (bad) design choices, growth in size, toward the disaster, and pathetic hopes for up to 82 ships…
By mid 2003, three preliminary designs were selected: The 3000 tons Trimaran hull from General Dynamics; the 3000 tons semi planning monohull hull from Lockheed Martin and the HCAC design from Textron Systems. By may 2004, the 2 final contenders selected was The Trimaran hull and the semi planning monohull, with the main goal to build up to 4 demonstrators ships before any final design choice.

2006/2010: The beginning of the joke !
Unfortunately, with the building of the first 2 demonstrator’s ships, some weakness (some even severe), begin to appear:

- Cost of the first 2 demonstrators ships rise even DRAMATICALY: LCS 1”Freedom”, from 220 to 637 $ million (+ 289%); LCS 2 “Independence”: from 220 to 704 $ million (+320%). This tremendous cost forces the US Navy to delayed/postponed the 2 others “demonstrators ships from 2007 to 2009. With this, one of the main advantages of the LCS, the affordability, disappeared….

- Delays, cost-overruns and even much worse (NLOS-LS) for some “combat modules”.

- The monohull design was clearly over-powered : 113 000hp for the LCS 1 “Freedom; but only 60 000hp for the LCS 2 “independence” (this difference were due to the better efficiency of the Trimaran hull design). Although with a sufficient range for littoral warfare, unfortunately a very too shorter endurance for effective long oversea deployment (1150 miles at 15 knots, 3350 miles at 18 knots for the LCS 1; and 1940 miles at 46 knots and 4300 miles at 20 knots for the LCS 2……..to compare with 4200 miles at 20 knots or 5000 miles at 18 knots for a O.H.Perry FFG).

- Some serious concerns about survivability in littoral environment (again supersonic or even future hypersonic cruise missile, very fast rocket propelled torpedoes, advanced mobile mine, improvised naval mine, suicide frogmen with limpet mine/charge, suicide midget submarines, suicide small fast crafts, improvised rocket). Don’t forget that the first 2 ships failed during shock hardening tests (ability to keep operating following an nearly underwater explosion) and even more worse, LCS-1 could be easily swamped when fully loaded.

- With too fewer crew, serious doubt rise about the capabilities for this very small crew (40 sailors + 35 max others with combat modules), to conduct efficient battle damage repairs on a +/- 120 meters, 3000 tons warship.

From 2010 to late 2020’s……
Although usually a mass warships building reduce the unit cost, growing warships cost and inflation will most likely keep the cost per furthers LCS above 600+ $ million, without combat modules…A final choice about the “winning design” (to be mass built) will be taken by mid/late 2010 by the US Navy.

In Fact the US Navy expect to build 55 LCS and 64 LCS mission packages (16 ASW, 24 MCM, 24 SUW). The current LCS shipbuilding program (incorporate the US Navy 30 year shipbuilding plan 2011-2040) is this :

2 LCS (LCS 1-2) ordered by FY 2005/2006, commissioned by 2008/2010, to be retired by 2032/2035.
2 LCS (LCS 3-4) ordered by FY 2009, commissioned by 2012, to be retired by 2037.
2 LCS (LCS 5-6) ordered by FY 2010, commissioned by 2013, to be retired by 2038.
2 LCS (LCS 7-8) ordered by FY 2011, commissioned by 2014, to be retired by 2039.
3 LCS (LCS 9-11) ordered by FY 2012, commissioned by 2015, to be retired by 2040.
4 LCS (LCS 12-23) ordered each year through FY 2013-2015, commissioned by 2016/2019, to be retired by 2041/2044.
3 LCS (LCS 24-35) ordered each year through FY 2016-2019, commissioned by 2019/2022, to be retired by 2044/2047.
2 LCS (LCS 36-45) ordered each year through FY 2020-2024, commissioned by 2023/2026, to be retired by 2048/2051.
1-2-1-2 LCS (LCS 46-58) pattern each year through FY 2025-2033, commissioned by 2028/2036, to be retired by 2053/2061. With the first 2 newer LCS(X) (LCS 56-57) ordered by 2032 and commissioned by 2035/2036.
2 LCS(X) (LCS 59-72) ordered each year through FY 2034-2040, commissioned by 2037/2043, to be retired by 2062/2068.

In fact, it is clear that despite the official 55 goal vessel requirement of the U.S. Navy, this reach, AT THE EXTREME BEST CASE (if any future budgets cuts/delays/cost overruns occurred during…….2012-2032……………), only around +/- 53 ships. Because with the current plan, the 55th LCS will be ordered by FY 2031 and commissioned by +/- 2034 (at the same time as the 1st LCS will be retired).

Toward a new LCS(X) design by earlier 2030’s
With a 25 year expected service life, the 55 currently planned LCS, to be commissioned around 2009-2034, was expected to be retired by 2032/2057 and progressively replaced (doubtfully at one by one basis) by a new generation of LCS(X) by early 2030’s (or a other replacement concept ?). There are probably 2 solutions:

A newer LCS(X) (a batch/Flight II or a improved design)
A radically different concept, maybe turned to the more valuable mother ship concept

In any case, the cost per copy for a future LCS(X) will be around 700+ $ million per copy (2010 estimates), but I think that by late 2020/mid 2030, final cost (with shipbuilding cost increase/inflation) reach around 1+ $ billion or even more…


Ocean Cutters (Ocean Patrol Vessels), down from 12 to only 8 by late 2010’s
12 Hamilton class national cutters
(WHEC-719/726: Hamilton, Dallas, Mellon, Chase, Boutwell, Sherman, Gallatin, Morgenthau, Rush, Munro, Jarvis, Midgett). 3250 tons cutters, Commissioned by 1967/1972. Originally with +/- 25 years of service, extended through the 1990’s to 35/even 40+ years. Now totally worn out and expected to be partially replaced by only 8 new Bertholf class cutters by 2009/2020.

8 future Bertholf class national cutters
(WMSL-750/757: Bertholf, Waesche, Stratton, Hamilton, others not yet named). 4500 tons cutter/frigate design. Flaws discovered during the construction of the first 2 ships (hull fatigue). Price: 4,7 $ billion for 8 ships (= 580+ $ million per copy, 2009 estimates), 30 year service life expected, This class, same as LCS, suffered from cost-overruns. Commissioned by 2008-2017.


Up to 28 Modular ships (toward a great improvement in naval warfare)
2 Demonstrator’s ships
Sea Fighter (FSF 1), 80 meters, 950 tons SWATH hull. Commissioned by 2005. Likely to be used extensively for trials and patrol boat purpose for +/- 20 years. To be retired maybe by 2025.

Swift (HSV 2), 98 meters, 1600+ tons full loaded, Hybrid catamaran. Commissioned by 2003. Likely to be retired during 2010’s and returned to civilian use.

A nearly similar but older ships (Joint Venture HSV-X1), was used for trials around 1998/2004 and retired from US Service and returned to civilian use. A another +/- similar ship (Westpac Express, HSV 4676), were loaned up to 2011. These 4 ships have served (or still serve) for extensive operational testing use. Following these tests, it was decided to acquire a standard class of more than 28 new JSHV.


Up to 28 JSHV (Joint High Speed Vessel), up to 28/41 by mid 2020’s.
Modular catamaran design, able for transport/logistic/and even patrol use, relatively cheaper (+/- 160/200 $ million per ship). With 20 year service life expected, to be commissioned by +/- 2013/2025, to be retired by 2033/2045 and replaced by a JSHV Block II (improved design) or maybe ? by a newer JSHV X design (procurement begin in FY 2030).
1 ordered each year through FY2009/2012; 2 ordered each year thought FY2013/2022, for a total of 24 JSHV (+ 5 others ordered by US Army). For a total of 41 JHSV procured over the next 30 year.

13 Ice capable ships, some concerns about their future…
2 Polar class icebreaker
(Polar Sea, Polar Star), 13200 tons, commissioned by 1976/1977.

1 Mackinaw class lake icebreaker
(Mackinaw), 3500 tons, commissioned by 2006

1 Healy class icebreaker
(Healy), 16 000 tons, commissioned by 1999

9 Katmay Bay tug icebreaker class
(Katmai Bay, Bristol Bay, Mobile Bay, Biscayne Bay, Neah Bay, Morro Bay, Penobscot Bay, Thunder Bay, Sturgeon Bay), commissioned by 1979-1988.

27 Medium OPV (1000/2000 tons range), grow in size and down in number by late 2010’s/early 2020’s
13 Famous class Endurance cutters
(WMEC 901-913: Bear, Tampa, Harriet Lane, Northland, Spencer, Seneca, Escanaba, Tahoma, Campbell, Thetis, Forward, Legare, Mohawk), 1800 tons OPV, 270 foot (82+m), commissioned 1983-1991. With probable +/- 30 year service life expected, to be retired around 2013/2021. Likely to be replaced by the later new 3200 tons Offshore patrol cutters.

14 Reliance class Endurance cutters
(WMEC 615-630: Reliance, Digilence, Vigilant, Active, Confidence, Resolute, Valiant, Steadfast, Dauntless, Venturous, Dependable, Vigorous, Decisive, Alert), 2 others already retired (Courageous, Durable); 1100 tons OPV, 210 foot (64m), commissioned by 1964-1969. Ageing vessel to be replaced by 2010’s by the early new Offshore Patrol Cutters

up to 24 new Offshore Patrol cutters
3200 tons, expected to be commissioned around +/- 2017/2028. With probable +/- 30 year service life.

Training ship
1 Eagle class sailing training ship (Eagle), commissioned by 1946 (ex german ship)

16 Juniper class Buoy tenders
(Juniper, Willow, Kukui, Elm, Walnut, Spar, Maple, Aspen, Sycamore, Cypress, Oak, Hickory, Fir, Hollyhock, Sequoia, Alder), 2000 tons, commissioned 1996- 2005.

120 Mid Shore Boats (20+ to 40 meters range), toward 129 by late 2010’s.
49 Island class built
110 foot (34 meters) (WPB 1301-1349), currently 41 still in service. 8 more in reserve (after a attempt to rebuild/enlarge them failed) and unlikely to return at sea. To be replaced by 46 new Fast Response Cutters (FRC-A), around 200 tons and 12 New Fast Response Cutters (FRC-B) (Sentinel class) Sentinel class, 350 tons, 46+ meters (154ft)

71 Marine Protector class
87 foot (27 meters), (WPB- 87333-87319), commissioned through 2000’s decade.

+/- 300 Small boats (12 to 20 meters)
117 (a total of 200 planned) MLB 47 (14 meters) foot class:
18/20 tons, commissioned 1997 to mid 2010’s

+/- 172 UTB 41 foot (12 meters) boats:
since 2008 these ageing small boats will be progressively retired and replaced by the Response boat medium (47 foot, 13+ meters) through 2008-2018 As mid 2010, 28 to 96 boats delivered, 180 expected

+/- 1200 Very Small Boats (4 to 11 meters)
The Coast Guard operates a grand total of +/- 1,400 small boats, defined as any vessel less than 65 feet (20 meters) in length (the shortest is 12 feet (4 m)) which generally operate near shore and on inland waterways. This 1200 very small boats include:

33 Long range interceptor:
(11 meters RHIB) expected Many 25 foot (8 meters) transportable port security boats, commissioned since 1997.

91 Short range prosecutor:
(7 meters RHIB)

500 response boat small:
(25ft), since 2003, (470 for USCG, 20 for department of homeland security and 10 for US Navy).

US Riverine Force (estimations)
Currently 3 squadron with a total of +/- 36 RHIB, small boats.


US COAST GUARD
Aircrafts:
- 27 HC-130
- 3 Casa HC-144A
- 1 Gulfstream

Helico:
- 35 HU-25A Guardian
- 35 HH-60J
- 102 HH-65
- 8 MH-68

----------

My personal opinion about a future US light surface combatant fleet (US Navy & US Coast Guard), better to have:

+/- 40 Oceanic Patrol Boat (light frigate, 200+ miles and beyond, long overseas deployment capable, for sea presence):
2 possible hull designs:

A +/- 3500 tons monohull design built on civilian standard with great automation (to save procurement/operational cost), for excellent seakepping quality and long endurance (for excellent overseas deployments). Armed with a 76mm gun fore, one or two 20 or 25mm gun (Phalanx or Mk 38) aft, up to six 12,7mm machines guns, with hangar for 1 helico. With a self defense capability againt aerial/submarines asymmetrical threats (4/6 short range SAM manpads AAW missile, a cheaper sonar and special weapons againt midgets submarines). Capacity for 2/3 RHIB and 12/15 commandos/special forces. Likely to cost around 150/200 $ million.

Or a more flexible 3000/4000 tons catamaran design (improved JHSV design), likely slightly more expensive (+/- 200/300 $ million) than a conventional monohull design but with a greater modularity. Able to be used as Oceanic patrol boat, small logistic ship, small helico carrier, mothers ship & so. With a combat module fore (for a 76mm gun or 20/30mm gun or self protection missiles, with up to six 12,7mm machines guns around the hull, with a large helipad aft for 2/3 helico/UAV. A vast Internal hangar for 2/3 dozens of vehicles or 2/3 helico/UAV, capacity for 3-4 RHIB or UUV/SUW unmanned vehicles.

+/- 28/38 pure Littoral combatant ships (much smaller/cheaper/effective than the current LCS……):
A +/- 500/800 tons (50/80 meters) monohull or catamaran modular design (with “plug in” combat modules, similar to the Danish STANFLEX concept). With high speed (45+ knots), high agility/manoeuvrability, shallow draft, enough small to be carried by much bigger ships (on LHD/LPD/LSD well decks or on deck aboard big auxiliary logistics US ships or civilian ships loaned, as “mothers ship concept”) near the operational aera. Able to be reconfigured very quickly (few days) in 2 versions:

- Surface warfare : heavily armed with one 76mm gun fore, one 20 or 25mm gun aft (Phalanx or Mk 38 gun), up to four 12,7mm machines guns, central module for up to 4 SSM Harpoon, up to 15 small anti-ships missiles (similar than NLOS-LS), up to 6 short range SAM missiles manpad, aft small helipad for small UAV use, aft modular internal room with capacity for 2 RIHB (10/12 commandos/special forces) or 2 SUUVW.

- Under-waters Warfare (ASW, Mines): with one 20 or 25mm gun fore (Phalanx or Mk 38), up to four 12,7mm machines gun/gatlins, aft modular room with capacity for sonars/UUV vehicles/MCM devices/ASW torpedoes.

+/- 45 off-shore patrol boat (OPV, for up to 200 miles US EEZ aera patrol’s):
A +/- 1000/1800 tons monohull design, built on civilian standard with great automation (to reduce drastically procurement/operational cost). Armed with a 25/35mm gun fore (Mk38 or others), with up to six 12,7mm machines gun, hangar for 1 light helico and UAV, capacity for 2/3 RHIB and 10/12 commandos/special forces.

+/- 130 Mid Shore patrol boats (MPV, up to 60/100 miles patrol’s):
A +/- 300/400 tons monohull design, built on civilian standard with great automation (to reduce drastically procurement/operational cost). Armed with a 25/30mm gun fore (Mk38 or others), up to four 12,7mm machines guns, very small UAV capable, capacity for 2 RHIB and up to 10 commandos/special forces.

+/- 350 Coastals Patrol Boat’s (CPB, up to 12 miles patrol’s):
A +/- 18/25 tons monohull design, built on civilian standard with great automation (to reduce drastically procurement/operational coast). Capable to carry one or two machines guns and 1 RHIB with 5/8 commandos/special forces.

+/- 1000 Inshore/Waterways patrol’s boats Massive use of RHIB.

Next editorial (likely around early september): Future of the Canadian Navy.

It may be that in my opinion, I forgot programms ? (or made few mistakes ?), then said it ! Feel free to comment and give your opinion !